We used to have a Christmas Eve party every year. We were military and most of our friends didn’t have family in the area. So we’d all gather at our house. The kids would track Santa on the computer, and every family would bring something tasty to share!
Since retiring from the military, a Christmas Eve party isn’t as practical and, we now have an annual Christmas Open House.
The kids are too old to track Santa, and I never know who is coming so bringing something tasty to share doesn’t work!
Typically, I usually bake for days before the party. I make all of the dips, and appetizers from scratch, and believe it or not, I try to learn a new decorating tip each year from HGTV.
CONFESSION #1: I just didn’t get to all that this year! I bought my dips, went to Costco and found some delicious frozen appetizers, and for the biggy – brace yourself… and I bought my COOKIES!!! Oh lordy, I do believe the elves at the North Pole stopped in their tracks at the sound of that confession!
But in remembering my Christmas KISS… I promised myself I wouldn’t stress out over it this year! I’m being intentional about remembering to Keep It Simple and Sweet!
So, next week I’m baking with the kids for fun, and I’m not stressing fussing over the Christmas party tonight. I am sure whoever shows this year will enjoy themselves, and I know for one I certainly will!
Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not one bit simpler. – Albert Einstein
Now Your Turn: What pressure do you place on yourself every year that you’ve given yourself permission to cut out and enjoy the Christmas KISS?
I am so glad you were able to cut the stress. This year I have had to say “no” to things that in the past I would jump on the opportunity to do. I am so sorry that I wasn’t able to make it over to your party. Our week with out-of-town family for the memorial of my father-in-law turned out to be a very blessed time together.
Hi Angi,
You were missed, but I am grateful that the time together was a blessing! Thanks for the post!
Hi Beth,
I am a big believer in the KISS principle. Even though I like the way that you changed the last letter. I love Christmas time but I am not a big fan of going over someone’s house who is all stressed out because they were trying to do everything themselves and trying to be perfect.
Justin Mazza,
Hey Justin, so awesome to see you again! I was a big offender of that in years past. I never could enjoy my company because I was running around the house like a crazy woman! Not to mention what I put my family through before the party! This year’s holiday party was so much fun, and I actually sat and visited most of the evening with friends and family!